The City of Moab will launch a new Residential Utility Assistance Pilot Program to help reduce the cost of water, sewer and stormwater utilities for qualifying low-income homeowners and renters who live within the Moab city limits. Qualifying city residents who receive these services from the Grand Water and Sewer Service Agency may also apply.
The program, budgeted at $75,000 for January through June of 2025 – the end of the city’s fiscal year – will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis until the budgeted funding has been allocated to qualified applicants.
The Moab City Council unanimously approved the six-month pilot program during its Nov. 12 regular meeting. Program funding for fiscal year 2025-2026 will be considered as part of the city’s budget process during the spring of 2025.
“The City Council recognizes the hardship that some of our community members are facing with the rising cost of living,” said Moab Mayor Joette Langianese. “This pilot program aims to assist residents who are most in need, in hopes of enhancing their quality of life.”
Under the program, homeowners qualify if they meet the income thresholds for state assistance programs such as SNAP, TANF, WIC, or free/reduced school lunch, or can demonstrate that their income is within 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Renters qualify if they meet the same income thresholds as homeowners and also provide proof of residence through a valid lease agreement, and documentation showing they have agreed to pay utility costs for their rentals even though the utility account remains in the property owner’s name. Renters enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or similar programs may automatically qualify.
All qualifying applicants may receive an account utility credit of $40 per month, or the total of their monthly City utility bill, whichever is less.
The Moab City Treasurer’s Office will begin accepting applications on Monday, Dec. 2. The treasurer’s office will review all applications, including verification of eligibility, cross-referencing state databases, and confirming utility account ownership. Applicants will be approved on a first-come, first-served basis as funding allows. Applicants who are denied, except due to lack of funds, will have the right to appeal the denial if they believe it is in error.
The treasurer’s office will notify applicants of approval or denial within 30 days of receiving the completed applications. Applicants who are approved must sign an agreement with the City of Moab.
“We're thrilled that the City Council has approved the Utility Assistance Pilot Program, allowing us to provide this vital service to our community members,” said City Manager Michael Black. “We look forward to working with our residents to ensure the program reaches those who need it most.”
Applications will be available Dec. 2, 2024. The application can be found online at moabcity.org/Treasurer, by emailing treasurer@moabcity.gov, or at the Treasurer’s Office, 217 E. Center Street. For questions or other information call the Treasurer’s Office at 435-259-5123, or email treasurer@moabcity.gov.